NHCLC PRESS RELEASE

Hispanic Evangelicals Support President's Proposal, Concerned with Anti-Hispanic/Immigrant Backlash

The Nation's leading Hispanic Evangelical organization, The National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, expressed strong support for the President's comprehensive immigration reform proposal presented in yesterday's oval office address to the nation. "We believe the President presented a viable solution that addresses both the security concerns of many Americans and the humane pathway towards earned citizenship", stated Dr. Gilbert Velez, Vice President for Public Policy of the NHCLC.

"President Bush addressed the concerns addressed by the House bill and the guest worker earned pathway proposed in the Senate. We now have bi-partisan support with a Presidential endorsement. Let's get this legislation passed so we can work on reconciliation between the immigrants and the rest of the country", stated Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, President of the NHCLC. "This debate has been hijacked by the fringe on both sides. As a result there is not only an anti immigrant sentiment throughout most of the country but we are likewise beginning to experience an anti Hispanic or Latino backlash. We must focus on building a nation that resonates with the tenants of our pledge of allegiance, One Nation Under God Indivisible with Liberty and Justice For all", added Rodriguez.

"I agree with President Bush that all elements must be addressed together or none of them will work at all. The legislation must be comprehensive", stated Rev. Mark Gonzalez, Policy Liaison for the NHCLC and National spokesperson for the National Hispanic Coalition for Comprehensive Immigration Reform . Rev. Rodriguez also added that the Hispanic Evangelical community is determined to mend the wounds created by the debate and provide avenues to reconcile Americans and the immigrant community.

Contact Information: Lissette Correa, Public Relations Department
Phone Number: 916-387-8800
email: info@nhclc.org
www.nhclc.org
About NHCLC
The National organization serves as the leading voice for the 15 million strong Hispanic evangelical community providing leadership, fellowship, networking, partnerships and public policy advocacy.

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